Estimated Cost of Living in Canberra

Estimated Cost of Living in Canberra

Canberra is Australia’s national capital of approximately 390,000 residents and a moderate cost of living. There are many ways to keep costs down by shopping at low-cost supermarket and stores such as Aldi, Big W and Kmart. Buying produce that are in season and cooking your own meals are useful options to manage your budget.

You will need at least AUD $23,500 a year as an international student. In addition, we recommend that you have at least AUD $4,000 when you arrive to cover the initial costs of study material, rental bond and furniture. These estimates do not include large household items such as a refrigerator or car.

Type of Expenses

Shared house or flat

One-bedroom unit

Rent

$250

$450

Mobile phone and internet

$15

$15

Household products (cleaning, toothpaste)

$5

$5

Food

$100

$100

Utilities (gas, electricity, phone)

$20

$40

Travel (Concession Bus)

$25

$25

Spending money/Entertainment

$50

$50

Incidentals

$10

$10

Average weekly costs* (AUD)

$475

$695

*Please note these are estimates only; actual costs of living will be determined by lifestyle.​